Numerical Modelling of Open Cell Polymeric Foams using Image-based Beam Element Model

As ultra-lightweight materials with excellent multifunctional properties, polymeric open cell foams have great potential for applications across various engineering fields such as aerospace, transportation and medical implants [1]. Structural design can significantly benefit from an accurate prediction of their mechanical properties. In this study, a simplified beam element model generated from CT images of an open cell polymeric foam is proposed to dramatically improve computational efficiency. The images of the foam microstructure were obtained using X-ray computed tomography. A voxel-based solid model was then constructed from these images by adopting level-set method [2] and Delaunay triangulation [3]. Morphological features such as strut length and thickness were measured, and an equivalent beam element model was generated. Simulations were carried out using both approaches. In both cases a strong agreement with the experimental results was reported, demonstrating the effectiveness of this novel approach. [1] L. Gong, S. Kyriakides and W.Y. Jang, Int. J. Solids Struct., 42, 1355-1379(2005). [2] S. Osher and R.P. Fedkiw, J. Comput. Phys., 169, 463-502(2001). [3] D.T. Lee and J. Bruce, Int.J.Comput.Inf.Sci., 9(3), 219-242(1980).